Story perspectives
Unite Accuses Birmingham Council of Undermining Bin Strikes
4/3/2026
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Story summary
- Unite the Union accuses Birmingham City Council of undermining bin strikes begun in March 2025 by boosting agency staffing.
- Agency staffing rose to over £8.8 million in 2025, up from £4.3 million in 2024.
- The council denies agency workers replaced strikers, saying funds cover waste services.
- Sharon Graham, Unite's general secretary, says funds are misused.
- Negotiations broke down in July 2025, and strikes may continue beyond September 2026.
